UTS Neighbors: Eckankar, A Love Song to God

This is the third article on some of the various non-profit groups which have offices at 4W43rd St. in Manhattan, where and the Unification Theological Seminary’ (UTS) has its New York campus. Eckankar is a spiritually-oriented group.

Eckankar, which literally means “Co-worker with God,” was started in 1965 and currently has members in over 100 countries. They publicize themselves as the “Religion of the Light and Sound of God,” and practice the singing of the word “HU,” an ancient name for God, to uplift and enlighten and bring one closer to God.

My main job is to awaken the knowledge and love for the divine things that are already in your heart. You are Soul. You are a child of God and your spiritual destiny is to become a Co-worker with God, to spread divine love to all those around you.”Harold Klemp, Spiritual Leader of Eckankar

“HU is woven into the language of life,” explains Harold Klemp, Spiritual Leader of Eckankar. “It is the sound of all sounds. It is also a love song to God. It represents the love of God for Soul, and we are Soul. HU represents the enormous love that the Creator has for Its creation.”

“My main job is to awaken the knowledge and love for the divine things that are already in your heart. You are Soul. You are a child of God and your spiritual destiny is to become a Co-worker with God, to spread divine love to all those around you.”

Eckists are non-denominational, but incorporate beliefs found in other religions: the Christian teaching of a belief in the Holy Spirit, and teachings from Hindu and Sikh religions, such as karma and reincarnation, for example. There is also a strong emphasis and belief in Soul Travel, where the “soul” travels freely in “other planes of reality,” and is believed to be “the most natural way back to God.”

William Harper, a 48-year member of Eckankar, demonstrated his daily practice of singing “HU,” and had some thoughts on how his beliefs could have a positive effect in today’s world.

“We could eliminate a lot of the problems of the world if we were to recognize each other as our brothers and sisters,” said Harper, “because in the spirit we are all one.”

To learn more about Eckankar or to receive a free copy of Eckankar: Ancient Wisdom for Today,
Visit: www.Eckankar.org    or    Call: 1-800-LOVE GOD.